The Patriots finally ponied up the dough for the key logjam in their defense, as the team and NT Vince Wilfork have agreed on a contract extension.

After weeks of speculation which included a franchise tag, the two sides have come together and the Patriots have secured the most important piece of their defense. The deal is worth $40 million dollars over five years, with $25 million guaranteed.

Wilfork, 28, has just 7.5 sacks in six seasons, but his value as the anchor of a stellar Patriots defensive line is well known. This move locks up the big fella for the remainder of his prime.